Aspartame was serendipitously discovered in 1965 by chemist James M. Schlatter while working on drug research. It quickly became a popular artificial sweetener due to its intense sweetness and low-calorie content. Although initially controversial, scientific studies and regulatory agencies worldwide recognize aspartame as safe within set intake limits. Advancements in sweetener blends help address taste and stability challenges, making aspartame vital for healthier food and beverage innovation.